The United States is in what has been called the worst bed bug outbreak since World War II. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency even held a bed bug "summit" last year to figure out how to respond.

Bed bug infestations can wreak havoc on a home and pose particularly difficult situations for renters. Bed bug bites are painful and result in redness and potential scarring. In addition, bed bugs are difficult to eradicate. Therefore, once infested, a tenant's personal items may have to be destroyed.

If you are a renter suffering from an infestation,

1) You should call the Los Angeles County Environmental Health Department ((888) 700-9995) to come and inspect your apartment for bed bugs. If the County inspector finds bed bugs, the County may order your landlord to hire an exterminator to eradicate the bugs.

2) If you live in the City of Los Angeles, you should also call the Los Angeles Housing Department (LAHD) at 866-557-RENT, and ask for a code enforcement inspection.

It is important to call the authorities because the bed bug problem may extend to the entire building, not just your unit. If your apartment is eradicated, the nasty critters may come back if the entire building is not treated.

Your landlord is legally required to exterminate bed bugs and is thus liable for all cleanup costs. Moreover, a landlord who knowingly rents an apartment with bed bugs may be liable for substantial money damages to the tenant who suffers from a bed bug infestation, including damages for pain and emotional distress.

If your landlord failed to clean-up bed bugs or failed to disclose a bed bug problem at your building, you may contact us to discuss your legal options.